How do you remove brake drums off of a 1997 Silverado?

Brake drums can be hard to remove. First, make sure you have your brake shoes adjusted all the way in. If you have a pneumatic hammer, use it between the studs until it loosens, then pull and tap on the side of the drum to get it the rest of the way. If you don't have one, use a big hammer and whack it between the studs, being very careful to not hit the studs.

With all drums make sure the shoes are backed off. A hammer may need to be used to tap the drum free if heavy rust is preventing ease of removal.

• NOTE: On some drums, there may be retaining screws to remove before you can pull it.

>> 2500 - 3500 Series: If you have a full-floating rear axle (such as on a GM 14-bolt rear) You will need to pull the axle shafts, remove a retaining clip (some use metal tabs you bend out of the way), and lockring keeper. To remove the lockring you should use a special 6-pronged socket to remove the lockring (you'll need one to properly torque it during reassembly). Carefully pull the drum off. Reassembly will require a new bearing seal,and hub gasket, and gear oil.

Torque numbers can be found in automotive repair manuals found in your local autoparts store.